1.6 Postbehavioralism
David Easton (1917–2014) was one of the most influential political scientists of the 20th century. He is famous for leading two separate revolutions: the behavioral revolution (1950s) and the post-behavioral reaction (1969).
In 1969, he introduced what he called the Credo of Relevance, a set of principles arguing that political science should be both scientifically rigorous and socially meaningful. Key ideas included:
- Substance is more important than the “technique” of research.
- Intellectuals have a historical role to protect the values of civilization.
- To know is to bear a responsibility to act.
Postbehavioralism is an approach to political science that seeks to combine scientific analysis with real-world relevance and ethical concern.
While behavioralism made political science more data-driven, critics argued that it focused too much on measurement and not enough on meaningful problems.
Postbehavioralists believe political science should not only explain the world, but also help improve it.
This approach emphasizes:
- Using data and evidence, but not ignoring values
- Focusing on urgent real-world issues (such as conflict, inequality, and security)
- Connecting research to practical solutions
For example, a behavioralist might study patterns in political violence using data. A postbehavioralist would go further, asking how that knowledge can be used to reduce violence or prevent instability.
Postbehavioralism argues that science and data should be used alongside judgment, responsibility, and purpose. It challenges the idea that political science can or should be completely value-free.
Postbehavioralism combines empirical research with normative concerns, aiming to make political science both accurate and relevant.
Understanding politics is important, but using that understanding to address real-world problems is what gives it purpose.
In section 1.7, we will look at political ideology.